Can the Right Lighting Ensure Superior Security?

How security lighting can work on your property

Security lighting is one of the best ways to prevent damage to your home and property and to keep your family safe. Not only is it an effective deterrent for potential intruders, it also discourages nuisance wildlife from going through your garbage or destroying your garden.

Getting to Know Your Security Lighting Options

In order to get the maximum benefits out of security lighting, you’ll need to decide what you’re shopping for before you head to the hardware store. First, think about where you’ll be installing the lights. This will guide you as you weight other factors.

The other factors you should consider before buying security lights include:

Fixture Type

Do you need lights that can illuminate a pathway or can be mounted on your home? Do you need lights for another specialized application? Be sure that you have all the tools you’ll need to install lights too.

Sensors

Do you need lights that will turn on automatically when they sense motion, or do you need lights that are on for the same time period every day? Think about the detection radius that you need as well.

Brightness

How bright must lights be in order to meet your needs? Make sure to take your neighbors into consideration.

Power Source

Should the bulbs be powered by electricity, batteries, or an alternative energy source? Keep in mind that security lights can use a lot of energy.

Weather Resistance

What type of weather conditions must the lights be able to withstand? Security lights should be designated for outdoor use.

Bulb Type

What type of bulb do you want to use for lighting? You can choose from many different bulbs include lighting-emitting diodes (LEDs), low-pressure sodium (LPS), and compact fluorescent lights (CFLs).

On Period

For how long do you need lights to be illuminated after they are activated? Opt for the shortest on period possible. Doing so will lower energy costs and keep your lights from becoming a nuisance.

Installing Your Security Lights

Once you’ve purchased the right security lights for your home, you’ll need to install them the right way. It’s generally best to install lights in areas where they’ll cover entryways and driveways. Place lights and sensors as far from each other as possible as the heat from lights can set off the sensors.

If your home uses aluminum wiring, you’ll need to call in an electrician. This type of wiring requires special handling protocols. You can identify aluminum wiring by its dull gray appearance, which is different from the dull orange of copper wiring. For help identifying your wiring and finding security lights for your property, stop by Rocky’s Ace Hardware today.